The holidays are finally here. It’s time to rest and recharge after a long and challenging year.

Everyone spends the holidays differently, but we think it’s safe to say that the best Christmas activity is to snuggle up on the couch with a hot beverage and a feel-good, classic Christmas movie. A close second is, of course, singing along to the soundtrack. Music plays a huge role during the holidays, as it can get even the biggest Scrooge in the Christmas spirit in no time.

From timeless holiday classics to new releases, each Christmas movie sounds amazing in its own way, and there’s nothing like a good holiday song to awaken feelings of comfort and joy within us. Here at Cutting Room Music, we believe the greatest Christmas movie soundtracks are those that play on our nostalgia, evoking pleasant and cozy memories, snuggly feels and relaxation. We decided to handpick a few of our favorite Christmas movie soundtracks, and share them with you.

Holiday Inn

Let’s start our list with a timeless gem. “White Christmas” is arguably one of the most recognizable Christmas songs of all time, and Holiday Inn is a true classic. The 1942 movie is stitched together by a beautiful Christmas soundtrack, with the film even earning an Oscar. Apart from the beautiful soundtrack, viewers can also enjoy the flawless dancing in the musical. If you’re into classic black-and-white movies, or if you’re curious how a 1942 movie captured the essence of Christmas, you would definitely enjoy Holiday Inn.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Next up is this wholesome animation movie from 1965. Even though it’s a kid’s movie, it can be enjoyed by the whole family, and its unique soundtrack really touches a cord. The way the team produced the soundtrack for the movie is truly amazing. Rather than hiring famous musical stars or filling it with pop music, the Bay Area production team behind the movie turned to local artist Vince Guaraldi. Guaraldi then crafted a sophisticated jazz score for the film, which became one of the best-selling Christmas soundtracks of all time. 

Gremlins

Gremlins is one of those movies that captures 1980’s culture in the best way possible. Its soundtrack is very impressive and in-tune with the trends, filled with captivating songs full of keyboards and synths. The film goes from sounding like a full-on Hollywood classic fanfare, to an offbeat experience later on with impressive musical twists and turns. It’s a very entertaining and fun movie, perfect to cheer up the whole family.

Die Hard

Of course, Die Hard is a Christmas movie – this is not up for debate. Unlike the previously mentioned titles, Die Hard isn’t filled with Christmas songs throughout its entirety, however, the hints are all there. Michael Kamen is a genius for crafting one of the most intelligent Christmas soundtracks of all time. His ability to rework classic Christmas songs and mix them with action tracks just goes to show his pure talent, further proving that Die Hard is indeed, a Christmas movie. Fun fact: Run-DMC’s “Christmas In Hollis” is also included in the movie.

Home Alone

A holiday movie list couldn’t be complete without including Home Alone. It’s perhaps the most popular and most beloved Christmas movie ever, and its soundtrack is also a true classic. The movie is filled with amazing songs, and each scene is accompanied by a perfect track. For many of us, it’s a Christmas staple that sets off the holiday season. The music, composed by John Williams, is a beautiful blend of festive warmth and magic, and fills up any household with joy and a holiday spirit.

Before you go…

The list can still go on, because there are countless other amazing Christmas movie soundtracks that capture our hearts and souls each year. The Nightmare Before Christmas, Elf, The Polar Express, and The Grinch all sound Christmassy and can evoke the holiday spirit in no time. All that’s left to do now is to brew a hot cup of tea, get a fluffy blanket, and choose a holiday movie to get lost in.

If you’re in need of help with a musical project, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Cutting Room Music team. We’re a trio of passionate composers that can’t wait to work on new, creative and exciting projects.